10 Tips For First-Time Sex

Having sex with a new partner is always a bit nerve wracking—whether it’s just your first time together or your first time with anyone.

Having sex with a new partner is always a bit nerve wracking — whether it’s just your first time together or your first time with anyone, and no matter how far along in your relationship you are. But there are no rules about how you should feel about first-time sex, because everything from nervous to nonchalant is normal and worth embracing.

"In either situation, take your time with each other,” says licensed sex therapist Vanessa Marin about first-time sex, regardless of how nervous you are (or aren’t). "Savouring each step of the interaction is the easiest way to make it feel special without being cheesy."

How do you know when you’re ready to have that interaction in the first place? "You'll know you're ready for sex when you've had a conversation about what sex means in the context of your relationship with each other,” Marin says. "You'll also know when you feel genuinely excited about sharing this experience with your partner!"

Wherever you are in your relationship — whether you’re about to get married or just starting dating — you can make your first time together memorable and enjoyable for both of you. Here are 10 tips to make that happen.